Radiation and Risk: Contamination and Irradiation

Understand the two types of radiation exposure: contamination and irradiation. Contamination involves radioactive material being on or in an object or person, while irradiation is when an object or person has been exposed to radiation but does not become radioactive.
Highlight the methods to minimise the risk of radiation. For instance, increase your distance from the source, decrease the duration of your exposure, utilise shielding such as lead to block radiation, and utilise remote handling equipment for radioactive materials to limit physical contact.
Remember that irradiation does not result in an object or person becoming radioactive. This is because irradiation exposes an object or person to radiation, but no radioactive material is left behind. Thus, as soon as the source of the radiation is removed, the irradiation ceases.
Understand that contamination, different from irradiation, means that radioactive material is physically present on or inside an object or person. This means that even when the source of radiation is removed, the object or person remains radioactive until the contaminant is removed.
Identify the risks associated with radiation. Radiation can ionise cells which can lead to cell death or mutation. This manifess within the body as burns, sickness, cancer, and genetic defects.
Recognise that measuring radiation exposure involves units called sieverts (Sv). Keep in mind, however, that most radiation levels are usually described using a smaller unit called millisieverts (mSv).
Internal contamination and irradiation can be more serious than external exposure because radioactive substances may remain in the body, continuing to irradiate a person’s internal organs. Different types of radiation have different penetration abilities which influence whether they are more likely to cause external or internal harm.
In situations involving radiation, always follow procedures and precautions outlined by safety guidelines and policies, making sure to use protective equipment when required, and to report any accidental exposure or spills immediately.
Realize that risk management in radiation involves balancing the benefits, such as medical diagnostic procedures or cancer treatment, against potential harm. Carefully calculated doses of radiation are used in medicine, accounting for a person’s age, general health, and other factors.
Understand that the biological effects of radiation are cumulative. This means the total radiation dose, obtained over time, is of importance in determining health risks. Damage to cells and tissues is not only related to the amount of radiation received, but also the rate at which it was received.
Always remember that radiation from nuclear waste can stay in the environment for a very long time. This means that the waste must be stored and handled appropriately to avoid harmful contamination.
Lastly, understand that radiation hazards are a costly, dangerous, and ongoing concern. There is a need for continuous monitoring, safety procedures, and management of both old and new radiation sources. Consider also how societies around the world balance the benefits and risks of using nuclear energy.